Tom Karel

May 31, 2024 | crossway.org | Kathryn Butler |Tom Karel |Samuel Ferguson |Sharon James

Biblical Hope for Those Who Suffer from Clinical Depression“I should have joy in Christ. Why am I feeling this way?” In this video, Kathryn Butler, physician and author of What Does Depression Mean for My Faith?, speaks to some of the misconceptions about clinical depression, which can be especially challenging for those of us who are followers of Christ. She provides a clinical, theological, and practical understanding of depression and offers grace and hope for anyone who struggles with it.

May 23, 2024 | crossway.org | Kathryn Butler |Tom Karel |David Murray

More than “Feeling Down”: A Clinical Overview of DepressionLike other mental illnesses, clinical depression is a hidden disability. It leeches all light from life but does so without visible scars. It skulks behind everyday routines. We go to work and pick up our kids from school but fight to breathe. We force a smile while our regard for life erodes away.

Feb 22, 2024 | crossway.org | David Murray |Tom Karel

Common Pitfalls Are Silence, Platitudes, and ErrorWe make many mistakes in what we say to sufferers. Partly because of ignorance, discomfort, or fear, we end up saying nothing, or nothing helpful, or everything wrong. These are all pitfalls to avoid, so let’s look at them more closely and explore how to make our words healing bridges rather than damaging holes. Some of the biggest pitfalls to avoid are silence, platitudes, and mistakes. Silence is a pitfall.

Nov 1, 2023 | crossway.org | Tom Karel |David Murray

When Labels Are HelpfulLabels can be helpful in beginning to describe or define what we are talking about. For example, when we label something as “a sports car,” that gives us all an idea, a mental image, of what we’re discussing. Without going into lots of detail, it conveniently distinguishes it from, say, a minivan. However, labels can also cause difficulties. When some people hear the label “sports car,” they may think of a classic open-top Corvette. Others may think of a Ferrari Testarossa.

Sep 18, 2023 | crossway.org | Tom Karel |David Murray

This article is part of the 5 Myths series. A Loaded TermMental illness. For many, that is a scary term. “You have a mental illness.” This statement borders on terrifying! It brings up many unsettling thoughts and complicated fears in our hearts and minds. This subject is further confused by the many differing opinions swirling around the internet. Moreover, in the post-Christian era in which we live, Christians may wonder if the advice they find is true, scientific, or Biblical?